Making the world a better place for raptors through education and science

We are a nonprofit organization with 501(c)3 status.

EIN: 82-0696138

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Golden Eagle Research

Once again, we are asking for your help! This research is important in understanding Arizona's Golden Eagles. Until 2011, virtually nothing was known about the Golden Eagles of Arizona. AZGFD began nest surveys and this research (data analyses) will build a strong foundation of knowledge for generations of researchers to build on. Research takes time and funding, without the help from the community the cares about these extraordinary birds, we cannot do what needs to be done!

EDUCATION PROGRAMS

We offer a variety of options…using PowerPoint and a live raptor on a glove

Education programs can be tailored to the wishes and objectives of the requesting school. All programs finish with a live raptor on the glove and an informal Q&A session. Upon request, raptor themed activities such as puzzles, quizzes, crafts, or coloring pages can be sent digitally. All of these programs can be adapted for university or adult lectures as well.

RAPTOR BIOLOGY – This program explores raptor anatomy using replica skeletal parts and photographs of different species to show the variances among raptor species based on their survival strategies used in the wild. Dissecting and examining feathers and raptor pellets is always a favorite way to demonstrate the unique biology of raptors.

RAPTORS AND PEOPLE – This program focuses on how humans impact raptors and discussing ways the students can help raptors in their everyday lives is an excellent way to develop good environmental stewardship.

WHERE RAPTORS LIVE – This program focuses on where raptors live and why all over the world. Topics covered are habitat characteristics and prey choices as well as hunting style used by various species based on prey, land cover and flight anatomy. A guided tour of species distribution and conservation status can be included if time permits.

FALCONRY-THE GENESIS OF RAPTOR CONSERVATION – This program encompasses the history of falconry and the rarely known fact that falconers pioneered the raptor conservation we know today. This is a great program for older students as well as adults that touch on a facet of topics such as biology, governmental policy, history and cultural heritage. A truly interdisciplinary approach to why we are fortunate enough to enjoy raptor species such as the Peregrine Falcon.

OUR DONATION STRUCTURE

45mins/1 raptor – Base donation of $65 up to 40 students, over 40 students $8 per student.

60mins/2 raptors - Base donation of $80 up to 40 students, over 40 students $8 per student.

90mins/1 raptor - Base donation of $130 up to 40 students, over 40 students $8 per student

BASIC RAPTOR EXPERIENCE (1 hour) – This experience allows you to experience a free flying hawk up close all while learning about the natural history of their wild counterparts.

A donation of $65 per person(limited to 6 participants and children must be at least 8 years old) If you do not wish to have a bird fly to your gloved hand but would like to watch the group, $20 per person. There must be at least one full participant within your party and children must be 5-years-old or older.

COMPREHENSIVERAPTOR EXPERIENCE (2 hours) –

This is a hands-on learning experience using a free flying hawk. This is for those who would like a little more detail on the aspects of falconry. Learn a few basics about training a raptor to hunt cooperatively with a human.

A donation of $130 per person (limited to 6 participants and children must be at least 8 years old). If you do not wish to have a bird fly to your gloved hand but would like to watch the group, $30 per person. There must be at least one full participant within your party and children must be 5-years-old or older.

FALCONRY EXPERIENCE (3 hours) - $200 per person (limited to 4 people and children must be over 12 years old)

Join us in the field to experience falconry while hunting in the fields of Northern Arizona.

(available until February 2018)

FALCONRY WORKSHOP (4 days)- $500 per person (limited to 5 people and must be at least 16 years old)

Learn captive raptor management and raptor husbandry including housing, diet and basic medical issues. Followed by falconry methods of training using operant conditioning and positive reinforcement, weight management and equipment making and instruction. Federal and State regulations will be covered.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Love photographing nature? A beautiful setting in Northern Arizona, a majestic raptor and your camera makes for a wonderful opportunity.

1-2 hours of shooting time!

$20 per person for 1 bird$35 per person for 2 birds$50 per person for 3 birds

About Us

We are a non-profit organization that is devoted to the conservation and understanding of raptor species worldwide. Our mission is to make the world a better place for raptors through education and science. Our vision is to improve awareness and appreciation of raptors by providing a variety of educational programs to the public. We offer falconry experiences and hunting excursions using trained raptors in order for the public to not only enjoy these beautiful birds up close but to have a better understanding of the role in our ecosystem as an apex predator.

The ancient culture of Falconry has played a pioneering role in raptor conservation and the Center will conserve that heritage through ethical practices and education. We provide presentations about the history for Falconry and workshops for those who wish to explore the culture for themselves.

Our ultimate vision for the Center is to be specialty center devoted to raptor species from all over the world for the public to visit and enjoy.

Michele Losee, MS – Executive Director

Raptor Ecologist and Master Falconer

Guinevere, my first Red-tailed Hawk

I am a raptor ecologist, master falconer and a PhD Candidate at Antioch University New England with research focusing on Golden Eagle population dynamics for the entire state of Arizona. Additionally, I hold a BS in Biology and a MS in Environmental Policy and Management.

For the more than 15 years, I have been involved in raptor rehabilitation, conservation and public education with various organizations.

I love all things, raptor. I am a raptor ecologist and master falconer. When I am not studying raptors, I am flying raptors in the fields of Northern Arizona and when not doing that, I am educating the public about raptors. I love all animals, especially birds, but I have decided to devote my entire life to making the world a better place for raptors. I founded the International Raptor and Falconry Center as decade long desire to fulfill that goal.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dana Green - President

Dana with Kieran after a training session

Dana is a biologist with a specialty in mammalogy and behavioral ecology. While she emphasizes the study of mammals for her research in Northern Arizona, she is an avid wildlife enthusiast and has worked with a variety of animals. Currently, Dana is working on her MS in Biology at Northern Arizona University with a focus on understanding animal communication and field based behavioral studies.

While Dana is focused on the sciences, she has a passion for bringing science and a love of wildlife to the public. She has participated in many outreach programs, science communication committees, and conservation organizations in order to highlight issues facing wildlife and their environments. Dana was also a part of the planning committee for the March for Science in Flagstaff, which gathered over 1,200 residents in advocating for the sciences.

Along with her public service, she is also a member of many professional organizations including the American Society of Mammalogists, where she serves as the student representative on the board of directors, The Wildlife Society, and the Animal Behavior Society.

Rena Dearden- Treasurer

Rena with Kieran at the Hot Cocoa and Raptors Event in Sedona

Secretary - Diane WelchFalconer and Educator

Diane with her female Red-tailed Hawk, Autumn and her hunting dog, Smitty

IRFC’s Youth Ambassador!

Danae with Finley

We cannot think of a better young person to champion our mission and inspire young people to care about raptors as well as lead the future generation of raptor conservationists. She is a leader beyond her years and we have no doubt she will carrying out the mission of making the world a better place for raptors with conviction.

According to Rena, Danae’s mother, “she has always loved and enjoyed birds and held that interest above all else. She incorporates birds into just about everything from drawing, clay art, costumes, stories she writes, etc. She aspires to be a falconer, ornithologist and rescuer. She has been studying hard and learning faster and harder than any 8-year-old. She learns through playing factual trivia games, reading books, wonderful mentors and anywhere she can gain nuggets of knowledge. She loves to share her knowledge with anyone who will lend an ear.”

Danae has shown a passion for raptors and strong interest in caring for them that can’t seem to be squashed. Her maturity and desire to learn is quite impressive. When she is old enough to start her falconry apprenticeship, which I’m sure will come no later than exactly ON her 12th birthday, it will be an honor for me (Michele) to sponsor her and witness her join the ranks of the very few female falconers.

Danae has already planned her first fundraiser for IRFC. She was the force behind our Hot Cocoa and Raptors event in Sedona, AZ.